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Easy Moroccan Couscous — Vegetable Herb Pilaf, colorful dish with herbs and nuts.

Easy Moroccan Couscous Vegetable Herb Pilaf

A cozy, colorful, and fast dish that brings big flavors to your table, perfect as a main meal or a side, made in about 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Moroccan
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Couscous Regular or whole wheat
  • 1 cup Broth or water Broth adds more flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil or butter To sauté the vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Diced small
  • 2 cups Mixed vegetables Carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, peas, or spinach
  • 2 cloves Garlic Optional, but recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin As a spice
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika As a spice
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric As a spice
  • 1 pinch Cinnamon As a spice
  • 1 bunch Fresh herbs Parsley, cilantro, mint, or a mix
  • 1 whole Lemon For zest and juice
  • 1 cup Chickpeas Optional, for added protein
  • 1/2 cup Raisins Optional, for sweetness
  • 1/2 cup Toasted almonds Optional topping
  • 1/2 cup Feta cheese Optional topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm a splash of olive oil in a pot. Add diced onion and cook until soft.
  2. Add firmer vegetables first, like carrots or bell pepper. Give them a few minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and spices. Let them cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  4. Pour in broth or water and bring to a gentle boil. Taste the liquid and season with salt if necessary.
  5. Turn off the heat, stir in couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  6. Fluff the couscous with a fork and add softer vegetables like peas or spinach so they warm through.
  7. Finish with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and any desired toppings.

Notes

For best flavor, always season your liquid and let the couscous sit covered to become fluffy. This dish pairs wonderfully with proteins like chicken, fish, or even fried eggs.